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Megan Birney Rudert and Assemblymember Gregg Hart to be honored at April 25-26 celebration in Alameda Park
SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) has announced its 2026 Environmental Heroes, honoring Megan Birney Rudert and Assemblymember Gregg Hart for their leadership and innovation in advancing climate solutions. The awards will be presented at the 56th annual Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, returning to Alameda Park April 25–26, 2026.
One of the longest-running Earth Day celebrations in the country—and among the largest on the West Coast—the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival is a beloved community tradition that brings together thousands of attendees for a weekend of environmental action, education, and celebration. The free, two-day event will take place Saturday, April 25 from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Presented by CEC and produced by longtime partner CarpEvents, the festival continues to serve as a leading hub for environmental engagement on the Central Coast.
“It has never been more important for us to celebrate, learn, and activate for our planet, our communities, and future generations, ” said Kathi King, CEC’s Director of Education and Operations.
“Santa Barbara continues to lead by example, demonstrating what a sustainable future can look like even amid national challenges. The Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival is a chance to come together, turn challenges into opportunities, and inspire lasting change.